Living in Peace is a certified NPO that aims to reduce poverty through equality of opportunity, under the vision "Opportunity for everyone." It has no full-time staff; all members, including board members, hold other jobs and work on weekday evenings and weekends.
Its work centers on three projects. The Microfinance Project supports microfinance institutions in developing countries, aiming for a world where everyone can access financial services. The Children Project supports child welfare facilities and career support for children's futures.
The Refugee Project helps refugees in Japan with job hunting and learning Japanese, and also recruits scholarship recipients for its learning program, "LIP-Learning." It is also taking on new areas, such as the children's experience program "Odekake LIP" and support for poverty caused by climate change.
Key points
- A style in which every member keeps a day job and contributes their time
- Three projects, from financial access in developing countries to children's and refugee support in Japan
- Publishes annual reports and activity statements, and recruits operating members and supporters
Why this organization's work stands out
Its distinguishing feature is a structure in which working professionals take part using their own skills and time. This pro bono style of involvement is a useful reference for people who are interested in international cooperation but hesitant to take a first step.
It is also notable for linking poverty in developing countries with the challenges of children and refugees whose opportunities are limited in Japan, through the shared view of equal opportunity.
Editor's comment
The idea that social change is "my own work" seemed to offer a hint for making international cooperation personal.
Details on its activities and how to join are on the official website. Please take a look.